Is Guatemala Safe?

Is Guatemala Safe?

Although there are parts of Guatemala that are dangerous, most tourist destinations are very safe.

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There are parts of the country that are violent and unsafe, but we do not send our clients there. The most dangerous places are in remote areas near the border with Mexico. Drug cartels and transnational gangs have a presence here and it is unwise for travelers to visit these areas.

Guatemala has had chaotic history filled with civil wars, military governments, and revolutions. The last few decades have been increasingly peaceful and have seen much more stability in government and society. One hopes that this trend will continue.

Guatemala's tourist destinations are typically very safe. There is an increased police presence in such places and minimal activity by criminal organizations. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon in these destinations. Petty theft, however, does occur. To protect yourself, don't flaunt expensive items in public and leave your valuables in a safety deposit box at your hotel . If you are robbed, don't resist. Give the thieves what they want and don't fight back.

Stick to reputable tourist destinations. Our Top Destinations are great examples of this, as are most everywhere else we send travelers. By sticking to tourism-friendly areas and activities, you'll ensure a safe trip.

If you're interested in learning more about crime and safety in Guatemala, you can do so here .

Related Travel Guides

  1. Crime and Safety in Guatemala
  2. Development and Society in Guatemala
  3. Environmental Issues in Guatemala
  4. Food and Drink in Guatemala
  5. Getting Around in Guatemala
  6. Getting to Guatemala
  7. Guatemala AirBnB
  8. Guatemala Entry Requirements
  9. Guatemalan History
  10. Guatemala's Government and Economy
  11. Health and Safety in Guatemala
  12. Holidays and Festivals in Guatemala
  13. Indigenous Groups
  14. Is Guatemala Safe?
  15. Mayan Astronomy
  16. Money in Guatemala
  17. Music and Art in Guatemala
  18. Religion in Guatemala
  19. The Geography and Climate of Guatemala
  20. The People and Culture of Guatemala
  21. Weather in Guatemala
  22. When to Visit Guatemala
Trips to Inspire

Guatemala itineraries from local insiders

Explore hand-picked Guatemala itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.

9 days | $$

A Wedding Celebration Made Better

Thank you for making my Wes and Ines's wedding so special! We were taken care of at all times and will return and only use your services!

A Wedding Celebration Made Better

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8 days | $$

Family Memories Together

Embark on a vibrant family adventure that balances Guatemala’s soaring volcanoes and tranquil lakes with affordable, immersive experiences designed for lasting memories. Your journey threads from the cool mist of Lake Atitlán to Antigua’s colonial cobblestones, then into a high‑altitude forest canopy, with avocado farm visits, lake tours, and street‑food evenings. Friendly local guides and welcoming families will share traditions, flavors, and stories, leaving you with a deeper connection to Guatemala’s culture and unforgettable family moments.

Family Memories Together

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A Solo Journey Through Guatemala

From the misty highlands surrounding Lake Atitlán to the colonial charm of Antigua, your solo adventure weaves volcanic landscapes, vibrant markets, and ancient Maya heritage into a single unforgettable trek. You’ll kayak on Lake Atitlán’s glass‑blue waters, trek the coffee‑scented slopes of Pacaya volcano, explore bustling market stalls in Chichicastenango, and wander cobblestone streets beneath Antigua’s cool, spring‑time breezes. Friendly local guides and community hosts will share stories, recipes, and traditions, leaving you with a deeper connection to Guatemala’s resilient spirit and a treasure trove of unforgettable memories.

A Solo Journey Through Guatemala

Guatemala

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The Best of Guatemala

From the volcanic highlands to the misty lake shores, this adventure captures Guatemala’s dramatic contrasts of ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and rugged natural wonders. After arriving in Guatemala City, you’ll head to cool Lake Atitlán for kayaking and coffee tours, then ride ATVs on Pacaya’s volcanic slopes before exploring Tikal’s towering temples. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides will immerse you in Maya heritage, bustling street food scenes, and serene lake villages, leaving you with stories and a deeper connection to Guatemala’s soul.

The Best of Guatemala

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Exclusive Guatemala

Embark on an exclusive, luxury adventure that juxtaposes tranquil highland lakes, dense jungle wilderness, and vibrant colonial charm across Guatemala's most iconic landscapes. You’ll glide from the cool shores of Lake Atitlán to the rainforests surrounding Tikal, then ascend the volcanic slopes of Acatenango before winding through the coffee farms of Antigua. Local experts and passionate hosts will lead horseback rides, private lake tours, and a traditional temazcal ceremony, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Guatemala’s heritage and natural splendor.

Exclusive Guatemala

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Explore and Connect

Embark on an adventurous couples vacation in Guatemala that balances vibrant markets, soaring canopies, and tranquil lakes while keeping the budget‑friendly spirit alive. From the high‑altitude colors of Chichicastenango and its bustling market to the serene waters of Lake Atitlán, then zip‑lining over cloud forests and unwinding on Monterrico’s Pacific shore. Local guides and friendly hosts weave authentic stories into each activity, leaving you with unforgettable memories of culture, nature, and shared adventure that feel both intimate and enriching.

Explore and Connect

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18 days | $$$

Artisan Explorer in Guatemala

the culture is so rich and diverse, the colors, the music, language, dance, art, artesania, nature, and most of all the people are very nice and wonderful

Artisan Explorer in Guatemala

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Nature Week in Guatemala with Friends

Swap bustling city streets for the emerald heart of Guatemala, where mist‑kissed highlands and turquoise lakes reveal a world of untamed nature and timeless Maya heritage. Your week threads through Lanquín’s rainforest canopy, Semuc Champey’s limestone pools, and Lake Atitlán’s volcanic rim, each microclimate delivering zip‑lining thrills, river swims, and coffee‑farm tours. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides share Maya traditions, sustainable farming, and volcanic legends, leaving you with vivid memories of adventure, community, and the pristine beauty of Guatemala’s wild heart.

Nature Week in Guatemala with Friends

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This is the Jungle? Ohh La La!

Take the children on an exciting adventure without sacrificing your comfort. Spend time outdoors, then enjoy high thread count linens, swimming pools, and private transportation.

This is the Jungle? Ohh La La!

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The Colors & Culture of Guatemala

Don’t just take your family somewhere new, teach them about the world on a colorful expedition of Guatemala full of outdoor adventures, history, and cultural exchanges.

The Colors & Culture of Guatemala

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Anywhere mission
Anywhere Guatemala

Insider-led Guatemala Design & Concierge

Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.

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Private drivers; English-speaking available.

Avoid the crowds in private day tours.

Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.

Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.

24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.

Belong Anywhere

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